Conduit Leakage Detection via Time-Reversal CSI Analysis
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for detecting conduit leakages, especially in underground and underwater pipelines, are costly, laborious, and inefficient, often requiring passive repair after leakage events and lacking precision in identifying minor leaks due to limited sensor placement.
Innovation Solution
A conduit leakage detection system utilizing a first and second transceiver to send and receive probe signals, performing a time-reversal process to obtain channel state information (CSI) and compare it to preset CSI, determining leakage events by analyzing spatial-temporal resonances and multipath reflections.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional leakage detection methods (pressure sensors at pump station, thermal imaging, pressure gauges) are used, then leakage can be detected, but the process is laborious and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical detection methods (pressure sensors, thermal imaging, manual inspection) with an electromagnetic field-based detection system. The system uses transceivers to send probe signals through the conduit and analyzes the reflected signals to detect leakage, eliminating the need for physical contact or manual inspection of the conduit.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables continuous leakage detection by continuously sending probe signals through the conduit and analyzing the channel state information. This allows real-time monitoring without interrupting the conduit operation or requiring periodic manual inspections, thus reducing detection time while maintaining reliable leakage detection.
2Device complexity
If pressure sensors are installed only at pump station without sensors in piping network, then device complexity is reduced, but measurement precision for minor leakages deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary detection mechanism using electromagnetic probe signals that can penetrate the conduit material. The transceivers act as intermediaries to transmit signals through the conduit wall and detect changes in channel state information caused by leakage, eliminating the need for direct physical contact with the conduit interior while maintaining high detection precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The system detects leakage by monitoring changes in channel state information parameters (such as signal attenuation, phase shift, and multipath reflections) rather than relying on direct pressure measurements. This parameter-based detection allows for precise identification of minor leakages without requiring complex sensor networks, as the electromagnetic signals are sensitive to even small changes in the conduit environment.
3Device complexity
If leakage tests are performed only when leakage events occur, then device complexity is reduced, but productivity deteriorates due to passive repair only after positions are found
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary detection actions by continuously monitoring channel state information and identifying leakage events before they cause significant damage. The ability to detect leakage in real-time allows for proactive maintenance and repair scheduling, improving productivity by avoiding emergency repairs and reducing overall system downtime.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables real-time, accurate detection and localization of conduit leakages, reducing costs and improving efficiency by leveraging the 802.11ad standard's wider frequency band for precise CSI collection and analysis.
Implementation Method 1
The first transceiver is configured to send a first probe signal toward a first direction and is disposed at a first side of the conduit, and the second transceiver is configured to receive the first probe signal
Implementation Method 2
The processor is configured to obtain a first current CSI from the first probe signal by performing a time-reversal process
Implementation Method 3
analyzing spatial-temporal resonances and multipath reflections
Data Source
AI summary
Conduit leakage detection system and method are provided. The system includes a first detection unit, a processor, and a memory. The first detection unit includes a first transceiver and a second transceiver communicates with the first transceiver to detect a conduit. The first transceiver sends a first probe signal toward a first direction, and the second transceiver is configured to receive the first probe signal. The memory stores a first preset channel state information (CSI), and the first preset CSI including a first CSI and a first normal CSI. The processor obtains a first current CSI from the first probe signal by performing a time-reversal process, and compares the first current CSI to the first preset CSI. When the first CSI is matched to the first current CSI, a first conduit leakage event associated with the conduit is determined to be occurred.